Global Travel News

Bangkok, Thailand, July 7, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Join Chai Jia Chai in July for two dinners as we embark on an epic food journey with Chef Naka Xiong from Odette, Singapore.

Together with Chef Tsai Shih Wei from Chai Jia Chai, we will traverse the varied cuisine styles in the Chinese spectrum, with rare ingredients inspired by the famed Manchu-Han banquet dining. Head Sommelier Lesley Liu will also fly in to curate and wow us with her wine pairing.

Alongside the culinary finesse that is synonymous with Odette, magic awaits us all.

Date: 12 & 13 July, 6.30pm
Venue: Chai Jia Chai, Sukhumvit 31
Limited seats at 16,800++ THB

Culinary Team

Host: Chef Tsai Shih Wei, Chef Owner of Chai Jia Chai
Flying in from Odette, Singapore
Naka Xiong, Chef de Cuisine
Lesley Liu, Head Sommelier

Respective Profiles

Though his parents disagreed, Shih Wei went ahead to pursue his dream in cooking. He cut, prepped, washed and cleared clogged sinks daily in his first kitchen job in Zhujiang Banquet, a restaurant in Taipei. Most importantly, he learnt as much as he yearned for, to grow as fast as he could, as the restaurant served up to 300 tables daily.

When Shih Wei found a delicious dish, he would try to be an apprentice and learn from the master chef. “Back then, there were only books and apprenticeship and from them, I learn”

His memorable first dish was the preserved radish omelette. A fire from an unplanned union of oil and water, burned the egg and some of his hair!

Shih Wei ventured internationally in 2015, taking kitchen positions in Australia, Poland and China. He ascended the kitchen hierarchy and was given a leadership position exactly two decades after his fiery radish omelette moment. Finally, the stars aligned and Chef Tsai Shih Wei opened his first restaurant in Bangkok, Thailand.

A Continuous Odyssey

Chai Jia Chai opened in 2021 on Sukhumvit Soi 31 in downtown Bangkok. The first “Chai” in the name is his name, the second means dishes and Jia means home. As the name resonates, it is like coming to Chef’s home to enjoy food/dishes.

However, from within the walls of his first restaurant (or home), a comprehensive food journey sails off as diners traverse the wide spectrum of Chinese cuisine.

Treasured and challenging ingredients like sturgeon bone and tendon, dried dragon giant grouper skin are presented in dishes and recipes that were once reserved for royalty. Not limiting himself to only one genre, Chef Tsai aims to maximise the experiences gained from his apprenticeships and to enlighten everyone on the depth and breadth of Chinese culinary repertoire.

Lesley is an accomplished sommelier with a distinguished career in fine dining across Asia. Currently Head Sommelier at the three-Michelin-starred Odette, she brings over a decade of experience from renowned establishments including Maison Lameloise Shanghai and Le Moût.

Lesley is the 2025 Tatler Best Sommelier and a two-time champion of Sopexa Singapore’s Best Sommelier in French Wines.

Holding an Advanced Certificate from the Court of Master Sommeliers, she is also certified in French, Spanish, and Italian wine specializations.

Known for her calm leadership and deep wine knowledge, Lesley continues to be a respected voice in the Asian sommelier community.

A Singapore native, Sheng Xiong or Chef Naka Xiong has spent over a decade under Chef Julien’s leadership, rising the ranks to be the Chef de Cuisine at Odette. Sheng Xiong grew up close to the ocean, spending weekends helping out at his father’s local fish farm and taking regular fishing trips around neighbouring islands. This nurtured an innate love for the sea, fostering a passion for seafood and ethical practices he still carries with him today.

In 2010, he started out as a trainee at Brasserie Les Saveurs in St. Regis Hotel Singapore, where he first met Chef Julien Royer, eventually moving with him to JAAN and working his way up the ranks.

Sheng Xiong has been with the team since Odette’s inception, bringing a proficiency and direction to service and support with the on-going menu R&D. Under the tutelage of Chef Julien, he has honed a culinary approach rooted in simplicity, informed by his Asian heritage and modern French training.

Beyond Odette’s annual four hands series, he has also supported Chef Julien on numerous international culinary events and experiences, including the St. Moritz Gourmet Festival in Switzerland,

Chef Daniel Boulud’s annual Sunday Supper fundraiser for Citymeals on Wheels in New York, and most recently Le Dîner des Grands Chefs held at l’Abbaye de Collonges. He also represented Chef Julien in Odette’s first overseas residency program in Maldives in 2022.

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Bangkok, Thailand, July 7, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Tuxedo Espresso Bar invites you to escape the ordinary with A Touch of Magic Afternoon Tea, a whimsical new experience that captures the charm of delicate patisseries and savory creations crafted to delight all senses. Inspired by timeless elegance and a hint of wonder, each element in this carefully curated set brings a magical twist to your afternoon indulgence.

Savor the playful harmony of savory delights, starting with Ricotta Citrus Waffles, mini waffles layered with creamy ricotta, yuzu, and lemon, topped with fresh grapes and orange. Enjoy the comforting flavors of the Ham & Cheese Sandwich. For a touch of boldness, the Smoked Duck & Berry Choux combines savory duck with fresh berries and green apple, balanced by a refreshing hint of lime caviar. The Golden Chicken Pie, a buttery homemade pastry filled with hearty chicken, completes this savory ensemble.

Complementing the savory selection are scones. The Lemon & Chia Scone, served with clotted cream and lemon glaze, offers a bright, citrusy bite.

Sweet lovers will be captivated by the artistry of each dessert. Indulge in the Chocolate Dice Bliss, a cube-shaped financier cake filled with luscious chocolate cream, or the Golden Wings Delight, a delicate chocolate shell filled with layers of cream cheese, peanut butter, and crunchy Florentine crumbs. The Choux au Pearly features blueberry mousse and diplomat cream in a refined éclair. Don’t miss The Art of Magic—a macaron with a subtly sweet and aromatic green tea filling.

The show-stopping centerpiece, Magic Hat, features a chocolate dome that unveils a hidden green tea opera cake, bringing a touch of theatrical flair to your table.

A Touch of Magic Afternoon Tea is priced at THB 1,380++ per set for two persons and THB 880++ per set for one person. Each set includes a pot of TWG tea or freshly brewed coffee. Enhance your magical moment with a glass of bubbly for just THB 200++.

Select creations from the set are also available à la carte, perfect for a touch of indulgence anytime:

• Chocolate Dice Bliss (THB 250++)
• Golden Wings Delight (THB 250++)
• Magic Hat (THB 250++)
• Choux au Pearly (THB 240++)

Available from 1 July – 31 October 2025, between 12:00 pm to 4:30 pm. Step into a world of flavor and fantasy—only at Tuxedo Espresso Bar

For more information or reservations, please contact us at 02 090 7888

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Cam Ranh, Vietnam, July 5, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / The Anam Group is breaking into unchartered territory in Vietnam’s hospitality industry with artificial intelligence (AI) that rapidly yet comprehensively responds to website users’ questions in real-time, 24/7, in roughly 150 languages.

With resorts The Anam Cam Ranh and The Anam Mui Ne, and large multipurpose convention centre Axi Plaza under its umbrella, the luxury hospitality brand has joined forces with a United States-based company to harness technology that combines the latest innovations from OpenAi and Google.

Sitting in the bottom right-hand corner of every website page, the website theanam.com’s chat function directly interfaces with The Anam Group’s vast property management system and its wealth of information.

Website users are permitted to ask any question related to a potential stay at either The Anam Cam Ranh or The Anam Mui Ne, ranging from the availability of accommodation to suit their needs, to dining experiences on offer, to the depth of the hotel pools and much more. The chat function instantly responds with accurate and quality responses.

The Anam Group’s commercial director Martin Koerner said the independently owned and operated group was the first in Vietnam to embrace such technology “already blowing the stereotype of chatbots failing to actually answer your question out of the water”.

“This AI technology is a game-changer for how people determine whether they will book a holiday with us when they come to our website,” Mr Koerner said. “Rather than, for example, having to trawl through our accommodation categories to determine what may suit their needs, such as the size of their family, and then checking if there is availability on given dates, they can garner a comprehensive answer straight away.”

Mr Koerner said the chat function was also “incredibly warm and friendly” in its delivery of information, offering helpful yet non-intrusive alternatives, as well as kind greetings such as, at the end of a response, a small phrase in Vietnamese followed by a translation in the users’ native language.

“We are using the latest in AI to deliver good ol’ fashioned Vietnamese hospitality; in this case, providing accurate and comprehensive information to serve the needs of our potential guests, and guests too, on our website.”

In response to the ongoing debate about AI replacing humans, Mr Koerner said that humans were still required to oversee the technology and continually update the property management system to ensure the chat function’s responses were up to date.

In addition to giving The Anam Group the edge on the internet, the technology also allows its staff, who would otherwise be answering questions via the phone and email that the chat function can answer, to instead focus on other priorities such as serving guests in person.

“The AI’s profound capacity to communicate in roughly 150 languages also removes any potential communication barriers between our staff and potential customers around the globe,” Mr Koerner said.

AI also currently handles messaging involving The Anam Cam Ranh and The Anam Mui Ne’s Facebook, Instagram and website message boxes.

Within the next few months The Anam Group also plans to roll out AI to comprehensively answer, in any language, in-house guests’ questions via WhatsApp.

About The Anam Group 

After the auspicious debut of The Anam Cam Ranh in 2017, the independently owned and operated The Anam Group celebrated the grand opening of its second property, The Anam Mui Ne, in January 2023, and multipurpose convention centre Axi Plaza in Cam Ranh in April, 2024.

With “Indochine Charm” and “Modern Luxury” as its watchwords, the group blends colonial-era aesthetics and attentive Vietnamese service with modern comforts and convenience. “The Anam” today is a reference to another name, “An Nam”, which was the name of Central Vietnam during the French Indochina era.

The Anam Cam Ranh overlooks 300 metres of beachfront on Vietnam’s scenic Cam Ranh peninsula, which averages more than 300 sunny days per year. The luxurious five-star resort boasts 77 villas and 136 rooms and suites. The Anam Cam Ranh features a French-inspired fine dining restaurant, all-day dining restaurant, a Vietnamese restaurant and bar, a classical bar, a beach club, in-room dining, a 10 treatment-room spa, indoor and outdoor movie theatres, three capacious swimming pools, ballroom, conference rooms, recreation and fitness centre, a tennis court, yoga room and deck, kids club, putting green, onsite sustainable farm, gift shop and more.

Like its predecessor The Anam Cam Ranh, The Anam Mui Ne’s design is also an echo out of Vietnam’s Indochine era. Situated in southern Vietnam’s popular beach town Mui Ne, the 1.2 hectare beachfront resort affords spectacular ocean vistas and features 127 elegant rooms and suites, including seven 142sqm suites with private pools and a 122sqm presidential suite with an extra room for the bodyguards. Its dining landscape comprises an all-day dining restaurant and grill, beachside restaurant and bar, and lobby bar. A five-treatment room spa, two vast swimming pools, a ballroom, conference rooms, water sports center, fitness center, yoga room, kid’s club and gift shop are among the resort’s host of world-class facilities.

With a design inspired by Vietnam’s iconic basket boat, Axi Plaza is a game changer for Cam Ranh and MICE offerings on Vietnam’s coastline due to its distinctive architecture and design, and spectacular beachfront location. Adjacent to The Anam Cam Ranh, Axi Plaza offers a vast state-of-the-art conference hall, a 360-degree rooftop venue, stunning outdoor beachfront event space, about 10,000sqm dedicated to shopping and dining outlets, and more.

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Bangkok, Thailand, July 3, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Recently, The Alliance Network—an international organization specializing in hospitality management, the food industry, and culinary arts education with members in 22 countries across all continents, including Turkey, Canada, Cyprus, France, Mexico, Finland, Chile, Cameroon, Singapore, Malta, the United States, Greece, Taiwan, Russia, Indonesia, Colombia, Bolivia, Ecuador, Peru, Lebanon, South Korea, and Thailand—hosted the Sustainability in Hospitality Contest 2025.

This global competition challenged students from member countries to present innovative business ideas aimed at building a more sustainable future for the hospitality industry. Dusit Thani College students rose to the occasion, triumphing over international peers to claim both the Grand Prize and Runner-Up Award.

Grand Prize: “SHINRAI” Presented by first-year students from the Professional Culinary Arts (International Program)—Ms. Sirin Nantaprayoon, Ms. Runchana Thumthan, and Mr. Phichayut Saechiam—the project embodied the principles of Zero-Waste Gastronomy. By blending Japanese culinary techniques with locally sourced Thai ingredients, the team proposed a fine-dining experience that minimizes food waste, supports small-scale producers, and reduces carbon emissions, all while telling a deeply rooted regional story through cuisine.

Runner-Up: “Re-leaf” This project was developed by Mr. Kullakola Kuramarohit (Hospitality Management, International Program) alongside Mr. Nattawat Theeraloetphanit, and Ms. Kanthima Mongkolyong (Professional Culinary Arts, International Program). Their concept introduced a new model of sustainable wellness tourism in Chiang Rai, Thailand, through an eco-conscious farm-stay experience. Integrating traditional healing wisdom with circular economy principles, the project aims to empower local communities and offer travelers an authentic, immersive connection to place.

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Bangkok, Thailand, July 4, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Sinergia Animal unveils the world’s largest photo exhibition on caged egg production at Tha Maharaj Lifestyle Mall. The powerful visual installation features 37 massive banners, each 2 meters tall, inviting pedestrians to walk through the corridor of cages, a striking visual and emotional experience. Each photo showcases a real, high-impact image of hens trapped in cages, captured in 37 different countries around the world, including Thailand.

“This is the most comprehensive global collection of images documenting the suffering of egg-laying hens,” said Saneekan Rosamontri, Managing Director at Sinergia Animal Thailand. “It’s a shocking but necessary reality check for the public and a clear message to companies: people do not want cruelty hidden behind their food.”

Asia is the largest egg-producing region in the world, with approximately 63% of the world’s commercial laying hen population, equivalent to more than three billion birds, located in the region. In Thailand, there are over 94.8 million egg-laying hens, the vast majority of which spend their entire adult lives confined in tiny cages, where they can barely walk or fully spread their wings. This system is considered one of the cruelest forms of animal exploitation in modern times.

An immersive and emotive experience

At the end of the photo exhibition, a monitor will play short, emotional videos documenting life inside factory egg farms, while activists with tablets encourage visitors to take action on social media and demand an end to the use of cages.

“I was deeply shocked by the images from different countries. Seeing the heartbreaking conditions of the hens made me realize where the eggs we eat every day actually come from. The farming system behind it is far more brutal than I had imagined. From now on, I’ll be more mindful and selective before buying each egg, so that my choices can help improve the lives of animals.” – Reflection from Sapaporn Pradith, one of the exhibition visitors.

“After witnessing the suffering of the hens in these images, I couldn’t help but think that the eggs they produce are likely of poor quality. And when we consume them, it may also affect our health.” – Reflection from Nin Narint, another visitor.

The photos featured in this installation were gathered by members of the Open Wing Alliance, a global coalition of over 90 animal protection organizations from across the world, including Sinergia Animal. The exhibit is part of a global campaign to end the use of cruel battery cages that confine hens in spaces smaller than a sheet of paper.

This global investigation exposes the scale of suffering in the supply chains of major food companies. It also comes at a time when bird flu outbreaks are escalating across the region, with cases jumping from animals to humans. These developments have raised serious concerns about the role of industrial farming in the spread of zoonotic diseases, further underscoring the urgency of phasing out battery cages.

More than 2,600 companies around the world have already pledged to go cage-free. In Thailand, leading brands such as Inspire Brands (Dunkin’ and Baskin-Robbins) and major hotel groups including IHG, Chatrium, and Marriott have made similar commitments. However, they have yet to provide clear public updates on their progress or confirm whether concrete actions have been taken toward fulfilling their promises.

“Companies must be held accountable. Every year of delay means millions of hens trapped in extreme confinement. This is an urgent matter of corporate responsibility and animal welfare,”  Saneekan added.

Learn more about this investigation at: investigations.openwingalliance.org/realcostofeggs/

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Bangkok, Thailand, July 4, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Six Senses has signed a hotel management agreement with Narai Hospitality Group to introduce Six Senses Bangkok as part of Hatai, a visionary mixed-use development on the site of the iconic Narai Hotel in the heart of Silom.

Narai Hotel first opened its doors in 1968, becoming a trailblazer in Thailand’s hospitality story as a grand gathering place that shaped Silom’s skyline and set the scene for its thriving business and social district. For over five decades, its dedication to exceptional service and unique offerings made it a beloved establishment for travelers, celebrities, and royalty. Now, in partnership with Narai Hospitality Group, a new chapter begins with Six Senses Bangkok.

A beacon of light, community, and renewal

The foundation work is already underway, with designs by award-winning Heatherwick studio inspired by the delicate craftsmanship of traditional lanterns. Hatai will emerge as Bangkok’s new “lantern quarter”, illuminating the city’s cultural heritage through sustainable and progressive design and serving to revitalize the entire area.

Six Senses Bangkok will offer an intimate experience, with around 100 spacious rooms and suites providing a peaceful retreat from the city’s energy, along with a balance of wellness spaces and intuitive, heartfelt hospitality.

The project targets both LEED Gold and WELL Gold certifications, upholding sustainable and healthy building design and construction. Narai Hotel’s original wooden foundation has been carefully extracted and will be repurposed and woven into the interior design, echoing the Six Senses philosophy of using local, sustainable, and natural materials.

Crowning the hotel will be a 700-square-meter suite and signature restaurant, both by design luminary Joyce Wang. Interior design by BAR Studio complements the architectural vision throughout the property and extends to the main restaurant, which connects to a sky lobby via a sky garden incorporating elements of biophilic design. The rooftop pool will draw swimmers from the indoors out to unwind after a busy day in the city. Six Senses Spa Bangkok will offer the brand’s signature blend of high-tech, high-touch treatments, and, as with all Six Senses properties, guests can expect integrated wellness offerings, mindful sleep programs, nourishing cuisine, and an authentic connection to the local community.

From island hideaways to city icons

Six Senses Bangkok marks a meaningful homecoming to the region where the brand’s origins are rooted. Joining Six Senses Samui and Six Senses Yao Noi in Thailand, it will further exemplify how the vision can be translated into flagship urban properties alongside Six Senses Rome and Six Senses Kyoto. Hotels in London, Milan, Lisbon, Dubai, and Tel Aviv have also been announced.

Neil Palmer, Chief Operating Officer of Six Senses, commented: “It’s a privilege to honor the legacy of Narai Hotel in such a culturally significant and storied location. Together with Narai Hospitality Group, we’re creating something truly special, a place that respects its history while embracing signature wellness, crafted experiences, and sustainable design and operations, all defining characteristics of the Six Senses core ethos.”

Nathee Nithivasin, Chief Executive Officer of Narai Hospitality Group, added: “Six Senses was the ideal partner for Hatai because of our shared dedication to emotional hospitality, sustainable design, and being part of the local fabric. This development continues our longstanding care for the community and reinforces our commitment to building thoughtfully for future generations.”

Gateway to Bangkok’s rich heritage and modern energy

Located on Silom Road, Six Senses Bangkok is one of two hotels to open at Hatai, that will also feature premium retail and dining experiences, and community gathering spaces across almost 6,000 square metres. It will be within easy reach of transport links, including the BTS and MRT networks. The nearby Sri Maha Mariamman Temple and landmark King Power Mahanakhon with its popular SkyWalk invite guests to explore both ancient traditions and contemporary Thai life. Silom’s proximity to the Chao Phraya River enhances its leisure appeal, while food enthusiasts will appreciate the diverse culinary scene from fine dining to authentic local street food.

Six Senses is part of IHG Hotels & Resorts’ fast-growing luxury & lifestyle portfolio. IHG currently has 40 open hotels and a further 38 in the pipeline spanning 11 destinations and nine brands in Thailand.

Six Senses Bangkok is scheduled to open shortly after the 60th anniversary of the original Narai Hotel in 2028, creating a fitting continuation of the legacy and marking a new milestone for both the hotel and the city.

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Chiang Mai, Thailand, July 3, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / AMANOR Hotel Chiang Mai and Unicorn Hospitality proudly unveil Lumi and Cha La: 4-Hands Dinner Series – a landmark culinary collaboration bringing together two talented chefs to ignite the city’s dining scene this July with two exceptional evenings of gastronomic artistry. This exclusive culinary experience will take place over two nights:

• 12^th July 2025 at Cha La, Hotel MYS Khao Yai
• 18^th July 2025 at Lumi, AMANOR Hotel Chiang Mai

Chef Prince of Lumi (AMANOR Hotel Chiang Mai) and Chef Tawan of Cha La (Hotel MYS Khao Yai) will join forces for an exclusive 4-hands dinner series, showcasing their unique culinary styles through 9 special courses. This remarkable collaboration celebrates Thailand’s vibrant flavors and ingredients, interpreted through each chef’s distinct gastronomic philosophy.

With a strategic vision aimed at future Michelin recognition, this series is a step towards the milestone in Unicorn Hospitality’s vision to position both Lumi and Cha La as leading culinary destinations.

A Meeting of Culinary Minds

The Chiang Mai edition of the exclusive 4-Hands Dinner series will be hosted at AMANOR Hotel Chiang Mai, home to Lumi, the hotel’s acclaimed fine dining destination. At the helm is Chef Prince, whose culinary philosophy – Italian craft meets local character – seamlessly integrates refined European technique with the soulful essence of Northern Thai cuisine.

Meanwhile, in Khao Yai, Chef Tawan helms Cha La at Hotel MYS, where hyperlocal ingredients and seasonal creativity define his kitchen’s ethos. Celebrated for its modern countryside charm and inventive dishes, Cha La has become a rising star on Thailand’s gastronomic map.

Chef Prince and Chef Tawan represent a new generation of Thai culinary chefs who honor tradition as a foundation for creative evolution, and their undeniable synergy serves as the creative backbone of each evening’s menu.

Masterfully orchestrated flavors

The multi-course wine dinner showcases both chefs’ diverse contributions, beginning with collaborative amuse-bouche and progressing through carefully crafted appetizers, palate cleansers, main courses, and a dessert finale. Each dish is paired with premium wines and liquors thoughtfully selected to complement individual flavors.

Standout creations from the 4-Hands Dinner include Chef Prince’s “Oyster Symphony”, an elegant blend of Andaman oyster, Doi Dam caviar, lychee glaze, and pomelo zest—perfectly paired with Spanish Cava – and Chef Tawan’s “Chilled Khao Yai Green Grape Gazpacho”, a refreshing and savory interpretation of local grapes, complemented by Iberico jamon, pickled cucumber, and green pea mousse.

Other menu highlights include “Foie Gras Mango Blossom” (Chef Prince), where Rougié foie gras meets Nam Dok Mai mango and ginger–lime crumble, and “Charcoal-Grilled Chocolate-Fed Wagyu Picanha” (Chef Tawan), served with cecina ham, kale, and whisky-smoked bordelaise sauce.

Dine-in price: THB 3,900++ per person, inclusive of curated wine pairings.

Exclusive stay packages

Hotel MYS Khao Yai – 12 July:  offers a complete package featuring one-night stay in the Deluxe Room for two, inclusive of breakfast, a complimentary afternoon tea set for two and the 4-hands dinner experience – all for THB 9,999++ per room per night with wine paring. Bookings available until 11^th July, 2025.

AMANOR Hotel Chiang Mai – 18 July: the package comprises of a one-night stay in a Deluxe Room for two, complimentary breakfast and the 4-hands dinner experience with wine pairing for THB 9,999+++ per room per night. Bookings accepted until 17^th July, 2025.

Do not miss this exclusive opportunity to experience the two culinary visionaries at the height of their craft. With limited seating available, early reservation is highly recommended for an unforgettable journey through flavor, artistry, and collaboration.

Reservations:

• AMANOR Hotel Chiang Mai

T: +66 (0) 53 216 219

• Hotel MYS Khao Yai

T: +66 (0) 44 049 069

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Bangkok, Thailand, July 3, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Step into a world of color and refreshment with Tropical Twilight, the latest Cocktails of the Month. Inspired by the dazzling hues of the sky, each handcrafted creation is a celebration of bold flavors, botanical spirits, and fruit-forward brilliance—perfect for any moment of the day.

Indulge in three exquisite creations:

• Sapphire Sky – A deep-blue delight that blends Bombay Sapphire, blue curaçao, plum syrup, and lime, topped with Schweppes Manao Soda refreshing finish reminiscent of a clear twilight sky.
• Blossom Mist – Light and floral, this refreshing mix of 42 Below Vodka, cherry blossom syrup, chamomile tea, strawberry purée, and Schweppes Lemon Soda is a garden in bloom – subtle, sweet, and soothing.
• Purple Rain – A dreamy infusion of Bacardi Carta Blanca, butterfly pea tea, peach syrup, cucumber, lime, and a splash of Schweppes Mandarin Yuzu Soda. Vibrant, herbaceous, and endlessly captivating.

Available from 1 July to 31 August 2025 at Cooling Tower Rooftop Bar, Plate Restaurant, Tuxedo Espresso Bar, and Plunge Juice Bar.

Only THB 390++ per glass

Whether you’re relaxing with friends or simply treating yourself, Tropical Twilight promises a colorful and sparkling experience in every glass.

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Bangkok, Thailand, July 3, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Thailand is stepping into the spotlight as a leader in smart tourism with the launch of Travel & Tech Asia 2025, the country’s first trade show focused entirely on travel innovation and technology.

Travel & Tech Asia 2025 is taking place from July 2–3 at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center in Bangkok, Thailand. The event is supported by prominent public and private sector organizations, both domestic and international, including the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), TAT Travel Tech Startup, Booking[.]com, Traveloka, SiteMinder, Lighthouse, TCEB and many other key supporters. Organized by VNU Asia Pacific, the event brings together travel businesses, technology providers, and tourism organizations from across Asia onto one dedicated platform.

The show comes at a time of unprecedented growth for the Asia-Pacific tourism industry. The market is projected to reach USD 155.5 billion in 2025, with expectations to nearly double by 2035. Thailand remains one of the world’s most popular travel destinations, ranking 8th globally with over 35 million international arrivals in 2024. In the first half of 2025 alone, the country has already welcomed more than 16.7 million visitors.

At Travel & Tech Asia 2025, over 35 brands from 6 countries are showcasing the latest tools for the industry—everything from hotel management systems and AI travel booking to immersive virtual experiences, digital payments, and cybersecurity.

During the official opening ceremony featured Mr. Jakkaphon Tangsutthitham, Vice Minister of Tourism and Sports, and executives from public and private sectors. They emphasized Thailand’s vision to become a regional hub for smart tourism, powered by strong partnerships and digital transformation.

Mr. Jakkaphon Tangsutthitham, Vice Minister of Tourism and Sports, presided that “Travel & Tech Asia 2025 is more than just an exhibition—it is a national platform to drive tourism innovation in line with Thailand’s digital and green economy strategies. As we embrace a future shaped by changing traveler behaviors and global challenges, technology is no longer optional—it is essential. This event reflects how the public and private sectors can come together to create real impact—not just for today, but for the future of Thailand’s tourism industry.”

Mr. Justin Pau, CEO of VNU Asia Pacific, states that “Travel & Tech Asia 2025 proudly marks Thailand’s first-ever B2B trade show dedicated entirely to travel technology and smart tourism solutions. This event was created to connect the full spectrum of the travel ecosystem—from infrastructure and hotel tech to booking platforms, marketing innovations, and sustainable tools. At its core, this show is about collaboration, and we are deeply grateful for the support of 18 leading organizations—including the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, TAT, PATA, TCEB, DEPA, NIA, and many others—who share our mission to advance travel through technology and move the industry forward together.”

“The Tourism Authority of Thailand is proud to co-organize Travel & Tech Asia 2025, a key platform connecting digital innovators with the tourism industry to drive technology adoption and sustainability. This event supports our mission to position Thailand as a high-value, future-ready destination. By embracing digital transformation and eco-friendly solutions, we can enhance visitor experiences while promoting responsible tourism,” said Mr. Kittipong Prapattong, Deputy Governor for Digital Research and Development.

“Travel & Tech Asia 2025 is more than just an event—it’s a catalyst for reimagining the future of our industry. At PATA, we believe innovation goes beyond adopting new technologies; it’s about fostering a mindset of openness, collaboration, and purpose. As we navigate rapid change, we must build smarter systems, form stronger partnerships, and invest in our people—the true heart of travel and tourism. Technology must be a force for good, making travel more seamless, inclusive, and sustainable. Events like this empower us to co-create solutions that connect communities, strengthen the tourism economy, and preserve the human essence of travel,” said Mr. Noor Ahmad Hamid, CEO, Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA).

As part of its ongoing commitment to sustainability, VNU Asia Pacific is proud to announce that Travel & Tech Asia 2025 will be the organization’s first carbon-neutral event, delivered in collaboration with the PEA Innovation Hub. This partnership marks the beginning of a long-term environmental strategy across all VNU-organized exhibitions. The initiative includes the implementation of carbon tracking systems, optimization of resource use, and the promotion of innovations that support environmental responsibility.

The show runs through Thursday, July 3, from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM, and is free to attend for trade professionals. Organizers aim for the event to serve as a catalyst for shaping the future of travel in Asia—connecting forward-thinking ideas with real-world applications. Onsite registration is open—join us and be part of the movement driving smarter, more sustainable tourism.

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Bangkok, Thailand, July 3, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) is pleased to announce that the Aseer Region Development Authority (ASDA) – the government body leading the development of Saudi Arabia’s Aseer Province – has officially joined the Association as its newest member.

“We are delighted to welcome the Aseer Region Development Authority to the PATA family. Aseer is a powerful example of how destinations can embrace tourism not only as an economic driver but also as a catalyst for cultural celebration, environmental responsibility, and community empowerment,” said PATA CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid. “As Saudi Arabia continues to diversify its tourism offerings, Aseer’s distinctive identity — rooted in heritage, nature, and innovation — offers meaningful inspiration to our global network. We look forward to learning from and working with ASDA as we collectively shape a more responsible and resilient future for travel.”

Known for its cool mountain climate, rich cultural heritage, and spectacular natural landscapes, Aseer is rapidly emerging as one of Saudi Arabia’s most distinctive tourism destinations. ASDA’s decision to join PATA highlights the region’s growing visibility on the global tourism map and reflects a shared commitment to building an inclusive and sustainable visitor economy aligned with PATA’s vision.

Eng. Hashem Al Dabbagh, CEO, Aseer Region Development Authority, said, “Joining PATA represents a significant milestone in our journey to establish Aseer as a world-class sustainable tourism destination – renowned for its stunning natural landscapes and vibrant cultural heritage. We look forward to collaborating with PATA to elevate Aseer’s profile on the global tourism stage and to showcase the region’s exceptional visitor experiences.”

Saudi Arabia is a key region for the Association, and PATA is already collaborating with the Saudi Tourism Authority to support the Kingdom’s tourism goals. ASDA’s addition marks another important step in PATA’s growing engagement across Saudi Arabia, strengthening connections not just at the national level but with distinctive regions that bring their own stories and strengths to the global stage.

About the Aseer Region

In the southwest of Saudi Arabia, Aseer unfolds like a captivating story. Its mountains wear veils of clouds, lush plains thrive year-round, and warm shores meet pristine seas. The majestic desert adds a sense of silence and grandeur. Aseer is steeped in ancient history, authentic culture, and unique heritage. It invites you to craft your own journey of discovery, adventure, and wonder. It’s time to discover Aseer — and rediscover Saudi Arabia.

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